846 Code on Transcript - Will Offset Show There or on WMR?

I was in a similar situation last year when I got my 846 code. From what I've seen, offsets typically show on both your transcript and WMR, but they appear differently in each place. On your transcript, you might see a separate TC 898 code with the offset amount, similar to how people with education loan offsets or child support offsets see them. The WMR tool usually gives you a more direct message about an offset, but sometimes it can be vague compared to what the transcript shows. Have you checked if your 846 amount matches what you were expecting on your return?

In my experience, the transcript is perhaps the more reliable source in most cases. It generally shows a TC 898 (Refund applied to non-IRS debt) if there's an offset. The amount listed with your 846 code should be the amount after any offsets have been applied, at least that's typically how it works. WMR might give you a notification, but the transcript usually provides more detailed information about what's actually happening with your money.

I keep extremely detailed records of my tax filings, and I've noticed that offsets typically appear on transcripts as transaction code 898. For example, last year my transcript showed: 846 - $3,245 (my refund amount) 898 - $1,500 (offset amount) The final deposit I received was $1,745. The WMR tool only showed a message saying "part of your refund is being used to pay obligations you owe" but didn't specify the exact amount. Have you received any notices about potential offsets earlier this year that might give you a clue about what to expect?

If you're concerned about an offset, here's what you need to do: 1. First, check your transcript for code 898 (offset indicator) 2. If you don't see it but suspect an offset, check WMR for messages 3. If still unclear, call the Treasury Offset Program at 800-304-3107 4. If you can't get through to anyone, try Claimyr.com to connect with an IRS agent quickly I spent 3 days trying to get confirmation about my offset last year. Used Claimyr (https://youtu.be/_kiP6q8DX5c) and got connected to an agent in 20 minutes who confirmed exactly which agency took my money and how much. Saved me hours of stress and redial attempts.

The Account Transcript is generally the definitive source for offset information. The Transaction Code (TC) 898 specifically indicates an offset application, while the TC 846 represents the remaining refund amount post-offset. The Debt Management Services (DMS) under Treasury Financial Management Service (FMS) administers these offsets through the Treasury Offset Program (TOP). I'd recommend analyzing your transcript for these specific indicators rather than relying solely on the WMR interface, which often provides limited visibility into the detailed transaction processing.

According to Internal Revenue Manual 21.4.6, offsets should appear on your transcript with the appropriate transaction code. Per IRM 5.19.1.5.5, the Bureau of the Fiscal Service (BFS) is required to notify taxpayers in writing when an offset occurs. Have you received any notices from BFS? Why is the IRS system so frustratingly inconsistent about displaying this information? I've had clients where offsets showed clearly on transcripts and others where they didn't appear at all until after the reduced refund was deposited.

Isn't it frustrating how the IRS makes something that should be simple so complicated? I had an offset last year for unpaid state taxes. Did my transcript show it? No. Did WMR explain it? Also no. The money just showed up in my account less than expected. I had to call the TOP (Treasury Offset Program) hotline at 800-304-3107 to find out where my money went. Have you tried calling that number yet? It's automated and will tell you if you have any offsets without having to talk to a human.

Offset details appear in transcript. Look for code 898. It shows agency. It shows amount taken. WMR gives general notice. Not specific amounts. Check both sources. Transcript is more reliable. Call TOP hotline for confirmation. Number is 800-304-3107. Have your SSN ready. Automated system works well. No long waits.

Back in 2023, I had a similar concern when I saw my 846 code. In my experience, if there's an offset, your transcript should show both the 846 code (with the amount after the offset) and potentially a 898 code (showing the offset itself). However, sometimes there's a delay between when these codes appear. Have you checked your transcript more than once? I'd recommend checking again in 24-48 hours to see if any additional codes appear. I'm slightly worried that the systems don't always sync perfectly.